Community events don’t end in February
In “George Washington’s Birthday” Feb. 27, p.4, The Hatchet commended the University for hosting centennial celebrations in February marking the George Washington University’s 100 years in Foggy Bottom, but questioned why the University did not hold a rally or block party. Celebratory events are going to be taking place throughout the year until October, including a block party.
Last week, GW launched a campaign to celebrate and recognize the anniversary of 100 years in Foggy Bottom. Kick-off events included an exhibit in the Luther Brady gallery called “Seen in Foggy Bottom,” which features scenes from the neighborhood.
On George Washington’s birthday, President Steven Knapp and a group of students participated in a wreath-laying ceremony for the University’s namesake at the Mount Vernon Estate, Gardens and Museum. Later that night, hundreds of students, faculty, staff, alumni and neighbors helped launch the centennial at the birthday bonfire.
The next day, the University hosted a special program that sought to reveal the man behind the myth that is General Washington. This week, we heard from long-term Foggy Bottom residents who reflected on the changes in Washington and in their lives as part of the panel discussion “Voices: Celebrating the African American Legacy in Foggy Bottom.” These programs were just the beginning for a large committee made up of students, faculty, staff and neighbors, who planned the commemoration. Our Foggy Bottom Centennial celebrations continue throughout 2012 culminating with the Foggy Bottom/West End block party in October.
You can read about our rich history in a special GW Magazine supplement which can be found online and on campus. Look for stories in GW Today that cover the decades since our relocation. Or stop by the “A Century of Change: One Hundred Years of GW in Foggy Bottom” exhibit in the Media and Public Affairs Building. Sign up for the Foggy Bottom Historical Walking Tour History Hunt taking place March 3. Soak up GW’s rich history and imagine what the neighborhood will look like 100 years from now.
The celebrations didn’t end last week. They have only just begun.
Lorraine A.Voles
Vice President for External Relations
